Effects of Meat Meal on Steer Performance and Rumen Microbial Activity

Inclusion of meat meal in steer fattening rations at levels of 0, 2.18, 4.36, and 6.75% had no pronounced effect upon steer performance. Efficiency of feed utilization, digestibility of crude fiber and ether extract, and rate of gain were similar at all levels. The rate of gain and efficiency of feed utilization at a concentration of 2.18% meat meal were slightly greater but were not statistically significant. Endogenous fermentation rates, as measured by short term manometric experiments, were minimal from rumen contents obtained from animals on a ration containing 2.18% meat meal. In vitro fermentation of alfalfa hay was directly related to the concentration of meat meal in the ration, suggesting increased cellulose utilization.